The Mount Morgan Argus Volume 17 Issue 23

GOLDEN DAY FOR MOUNT MORGAN

Wednesday, 23 November was a Golden Day for Mount Morgan. The news that the Queensland Government were going to back Heritage Minerals’ quest to wrest more gold from the tailings in the Open Cut and waste dumps, breathing life back into the former gold mine, was good news for the company that has spent the better part of four years assessing the potential and lodging the necessary paperwork with the various governing bodies. The funding commitment announced by Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Mr Cameron Dick on Tuesday, 23 November has brought the mine closer to reopening, with a tentative start date scheduled for early 2023.

The mine ceased hard-rock mining in 1981 and finally closed in 1990 after a nine-year tailings

program

since

have all been optimistic about the mine’s potential for a “phoenix-like” rebirth. Heritage

closure, five companies - Perilya Mines NL, Moonraker, Norton Gold Fields, Carbine Resources and

plans to

a

plant which will be used to process the existing 10 million tonnes of gold ore tailings.

retreatment

and

its

Heritage Minerals -

Minerals

develop

tailings retreatment

Pictured: Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor, Tony Williams, Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment, Cameron Dick, Heritage Minerals CEO Malcolm Paterson, Mine Manager Shane Charlton, Resources Minister Scott Stewart, Assistant to the Resources, Britney Lauga and Rockhampton Regional Council Division 5 Councillor, Cherie Rutherford.

Golden Day for Mount Morgan...From

Treasurer Dick said the Heritage Minerals-led project to reinvigorate the Mount Morgan Gold mine would provide financial and environmental benefits for the Mount Morgan community.

“From the proud history of the world’s largest gold mine in the 1900s, Mount Morgan has been under State Government management to remediate legacy environmental and safety risks for nearly 30 years,” he said.

This game-changing project through the establishment of a tailings processing plant has the potential to process nearly 10 million tonnes of existing gold ore tailings, recovering an estimated 263,000 ounces of gold and 5600 tonnes of copper.

The project is expected to create up to 133 full-time jobs by commercialising the remaining resources and is expected to generate almost $40million in new mining royalties.

Heritage Minerals Managing Director Malcolm Paterson said the Queensland Government funding would allow preliminary work of the environmental rehabilitation of the mine site to recover gold and copper from the mine tailings to now get underway to deliver a project with the potential to support jobs for another 100 years.

“The Mount Morgan mine created so much wealth and prosperity and had wide-ranging impacts, including providing the impetus for the establishment of British Petroleum (BP) as well as the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Australia’s oldest medical research institute,” Mr Paterson said.

“Our project will respect and protect the proud history of the mine and create new jobs and opportunities for the future of Mount Morgan and the broader region.

“As part of our commitment to the heritage of the mine site and its pivotal role in Australia’s history, we’ve even commissioned a multi-year television documentary about Mount Morgan and the re-start of the mine,” he said.

The Mount Morgan Argus ran the article on the documentary last year. The documentary will have an original musical score from Busby Marou, interviews with many local identites and will be narrated by Rupert McCall.

“Given the mine’s storied Queensland history, metals mined from Mount Morgan would also be ideal for production of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games’ gold silver and bronze medals.

“All our key permits and approvals, including our environmental authority are now in place.

“Once we finalise funding and finance approvals with the Australian Government, we can commission further preliminary works,” he said.

Rockhampton Regional Council has welcomed the announcement Heritage Minerals would re-open the Mount Morgan Gold Mine.

Rockhampton Regional Mayor, Tony Williams believes this major project announcement couldn’t come at a better time.

“This is a project that has the ability to change the face of Mount Morgan,” Rockhampton Regional Mayor Tony Williams said.

“I commend Heritage Minerals for their ongoing diligence, commitment and dedication to local investment.”

“Rockhampton Regional Council advocated for the Heritage Minerals project and welcomes the recent Queensland Government funding announcement.”

Mount Morgan Divisional Councillor Cherie Rutherford said the local community have been through some challenging times in recent years and this news comes as welcome relief.

“With long term water security now firmly on the horizon and the Mount Morgan mine now set to reopen, the community will certainly have reason to be optimistic about the future,” Cr Rutherford said.

“Residents of Mount Morgan have been waiting patiently for things to turn their way and this really is another fantastic outcome.”

Member for Flynn, Colin Boyce and Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry have welcomed the Queensland Government’s commitment to financially support Heritage Minerals’ Mount Morgan Tailing Processing and Rehabilitation Project.

The Mount Morgan Tailing Processing and Rehabilitation Project, where environmental rehabilitation of the old mine site funded by the recovery of gold and copper from the mine tailings, is expected to deliver a regional income growth effect of $849 million, deliver an estimated reduction in Mount Morgan unemployment to 6.7 per cent, $50 million in local procurement and generate $116.6 million in corporate income tax. Mr Boyce said it was critical the Commonwealth Government joins the Queensland Government in supporting this much needed project.

“After its closure 30 years ago, I am delighted construction on the redevelopment of the historic Mount Morgan mine is edging closer,” Mr Boyce said. “The project is expected to support 250 jobs in construction, 150 direct operating jobs and more than 2,400 indirect jobs.

MOUNT MORGAN ARGUS DISCLAIMER

The Mount Morgan Argus is published by Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc, 1 Railway Parade, Mount Morgan. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publishers. MMPAD reserves the discretionary right to alter, omit, reclassify or postpone publication of articles, photographs or advertisements in the Mount Morgan Argus. MMPAD takes all possible care with the publication of news, names and other information sourced by MMPAD representatives. It does not, however, take responsibility for erroneous information or spelling supplied by external sources. Please take care and ensure that information is correct and names are spelt correctly before submitting any items to this publication. MMPAD Executive

A Beginning and an end

For Lasharni, Lukye and Jasmine (pictured left) the transition from Kindy to Prep is the beginning of their primary school education while for the graduating Year 6 students, [pictured below] their Primary School days are coming to an end.

The Year 6 graduating class attended their graduation evening on 30 November at the Great Western in Rockhampton.

THE STORY OF WILD MOUNT MORGAN CLAY

If you are fortunate enough to have lived here in Mount Morgan when the tours were still operating in the historic mine, you would have seen the clay caverns... and the famous dinosaur footprints! If not, like the founder of ‘Wild Mount Morgan Clay’ you would have seen the reddish clay bricks of the Technical College - now Mount Morgan State High School, and the Post Office building. If you were a potter or artist, you might wonder whether more clay could be found in these

hills along with the gold that is still found today. Such were the thoughts of new business founder Louise Jones when she moved from Longreach to Mount Morgan late 2021. With experience as a Visual Arts Teacher and potter and passionate about sustainability, Louise was keen to discover new materials in her adopted town. To her surprise she soon noticed cracks appearing in the ground under her house and very sticky clay when it rained. Six months later after trialling hand-building and firing of this ‘yellow clay’ Louise had a ‘Eureka’ moment.

After firing in her makeshift drum kiln the clay turned the same rusty red as those very historic buildings in town. Since that first discovery her pottery artworks have made their way to local markets and the Mount Morgan Rail Museum where local birds of all sizes and

shape are on display. Recently added gifts include a ‘stack’ inspired set of salt and pepper shakers in caddy and the life size Guinea Fowl, a reference to our iconic residents.

Since commencing a Certificate III in Small Business Entrepreneurship Louise has officially registered her sustainable clay artworks as ‘Wild Mount Morgan Clay’ and this month launched the first formal workshops, an adult large scale pottery day class with catered lunch and school holiday kids ‘fairy garden clay workshop’ in December. Those interested in exploring pottery in a low-key social setting are welcome to Saturday’s drop-in pottery workshops from 2 pm [gold coin donation]. Bookings for workshops and online gift purchases are via website -www. wildmountmorganclay.au

HAIR STUDIO TO EXPAND IN 2023

Inspirational business owner Kodie Dodd [pictured above] has gone from strength to strength since opening her business in 2017.

Kodie, owner of Mane Street Hair Studio is set to expand her business in the early days of 2023 by relocating to the building formerly occupied by real estate companies.

Kodie has had a long-term goal of expansion since she opened in her current location in 2017, but it was the building’s recent availability that has spurred her into action.

“I would also like to create a more comfortable space for my clients and more room is advantageous for my ever-growing clientele,” she said.

Kodie will be keeping her existing premises and she hopes to establish a Health and Beauty hub.

“This will mean that there are more health and beauty services available in town,” she said.

This idea has already attracted a massage therapist who will be offering hot stone and Swedish massage.

Kodie will have to consider hiring additional staff in the near future.

“I’m hope to employ more staff to keep up with the demand,” she said.

Mane Street Hair Studio is the only Mount Morgan business that offers Afterpay - a payment method which allows customers to buy now and pay later. This has been available at the hair studio almost since the beginning.

“I would recommend it to other businesses as it allows people to have access to higher spending and is a great budget tool for incomes of all levels.”

Kodie attributes her success to consistency.

“I think it’s very important to be consistent with your services and your opening hours.

“Also, getting involved in the community doesn’t go unnoticed,” she said.

Planning is underway for a 10 January opening of the new premises.

COUNCIL CONNECTION

WITH DIVISION 5 COUNCILLOR CHERIE RUTHERFORD

Oh my goodness, it’s Christmas time again already. This year has flown by so quickly although it has certainly been a super busy year for Council.

2022 has been a challenging year for Council but in amongst those challenges there has been some amazing triumphs and Mount Morgan has certainly featured in those achievements. Some of the highlights include;

• The State governments announcement to provide $40 000 000 to help fund a pipeline to secure a permanent water supply for Mount Morgan was a dream come true.

•Heritage Minerals are a step closer to breathing new life into the wonderful old mine after the recent announcement that they have received State government support and funding for the project. All indications are very positive and we may see more gold come out of ‘that thar hill’ in the not to distance future. Thank you, Heritage Minerals, for your perseverance and I wish you every success.

• Designs are being finalise for the new swimming pool and at the recent community meeting we received some great positive feedback.

• Congratulations to the Mount Morgan Citizen’s Club for their outstanding proposal for the use of the old churches on East Street. Council is very pleased that we can play a part in helping your dream become a reality and we look forward to seeing these old buildings put to good use.

There is so much other great work happening in Mount Morgan and some fantastic events, but I won’t list them for fear of missing someone out.

My sincere thanks to all the hardworking community members and volunteers, without whom, none of this could happen. Your efforts do not go unnoticed and each of you help make Mount Morgan the wonderful town it is.

I also take this opportunity to thank Mayor Tony Williams and my fellow Councillors for their continued support of the Mount Morgan community.

I know they would join with me in wishing you all a Christmas filled with much love and laughter and hope that your new year will be one of good health and happiness.

I look forward to 2023 with great excitement and anticipation as the pipeline starts and the mine opens providing an amazing, renewed future for Mount Morgan.

God bless, Cherie

It’s come to the end of the final sitting week of the year in Canberra.

My job as the Member for Flynn and as a member of the opposition is to hold the Federal Government to account.

Recently, I spoke on three important issues. These were the cost-of-living crisis, the loss and damage fund and nuclear energy. All issues are directly relevant to the Flynn electorate.

Cost-of-living Crisis

The number one issue that I hear when travelling around the electorate of Flynn is how people are struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.

I introduced a Motion into the House of Representatives as more must be done to support families through this extremely difficult time.

I have been inundated by emails and calls from retirees, families and working people that are hurting every time they go to the supermarket, every time they open their electricity bill, every time they get a letter from their bank announcing an interest rate rise and every time they fill up at the bowser.

This Government needs to focus on the issues that matter to Australians and deliver a real and comprehensive plan to ease inflation and cost-ofliving pressures.

Loss and Damage Fund

Despite ruling out support for Australian households and businesses struggling with skyrocketing power prices, as forecast in the Federal Budget, the Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Chris Bowen, has happily handed over a blank cheque to other nations through a compensation scheme called the “Loss and Damage” Fund, for which there is no detail.

The fund is to compensate developing and climatevulnerable countries hit hardest by worsening weather extremes.

A report supported by the United Nations suggests that a loss and damage fund will cost upwards of one trillion dollars per year. If Australia produces 1.6% of global carbon emissions, then presumably, Australia’s contribution to the loss and damage fund will be 16 billion per annum. This is economic insanity.

It is time to put Australia first.

Nuclear Energy

My last speech of the week was centred around nuclear energy. I spoke about the overwhelming benefits of Australia utilising this form of energy.

Nuclear power is safe and has resulted in far fewer

deaths than that from dam failures, oil rig explosions and even, on some measures, the number of people that fall when installing solar panels.

Nuclear does less damage to the natural environment than other energy options. Wind energy takes up 250 times more land than nuclear power and solar takes up 150 times more land.

Between 1965 and 2018 the world spent $2 trillion on nuclear compared to $2.3 trillion for solar and wind, yet nuclear today produces around double the amount of electricity than that of solar and wind and is 95% reliable while solar and wind are 25% and 35% respectively.

Support for nuclear power is growing. A Lowy Institute poll last year found a majority would support removing the ban on nuclear power for the first time. In 2011, only 35% were in favour of nuclear power. It’s important that Australia plans for the future, and I believe nuclear power is the answer to our energy needs.

Longer stays, less fatigue.

Mount Morgan’s Driver Reviver stop located at the Historic Railway Station is now even more “driver” friendly since finishing “Managing Fatigue through increasing time stopped at Mount Morgan’s Driver Reviver Site” program in November.

Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc [MMPAD] received funding for the project from the Federal Government’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications in 2021 and involved the installation of a barbecue, shelter, water fountain and picnic table.

The project also included some restoration of old railway seats that have been onsite for many years, which was completed by the Mount Morgan Men’s Shed.

Rockhampton Regional Council [RRC] installed the BBQ, shelter, water fountain and picnic table with some costs saving. MMPAD was given approval to use the funding to further improve the site through adding extra seats and tables and bin surrounds.

MMPAD purchased an extra seat and picnic table setting and contracted the Men’s Shed to construct two more picnic tables under shelters that had previously only had a bench. The shelters had been at the Railway Complex for several years. In total, the Men’s Shed restored or rejuvenated five old bench seatings and two new picnic table and seat combinations.

MMPAD President, Mr John Steinberger said the project produced many benefits and would continue to do so for many years.

“The main benefit is to provide facilities to extend the stopping time of travellers – especially those who are driving great distances.

“Regular breaks when driving distances has the potential of reducing fatigue and that is always a positive,” he said.

As the Railway Station is a heritage listed site, MMPAD had to organise a Heritage Impact Study [HIS] on the buildings and the Fig Trees. The cost of the HIS was contributed by Australian Heritage Specialists [AHS], a contractor to RRC, who have a working knowledge of the Railway Complex.

An Arbor Study on the Federation Fig Trees (which are 122 years old) was conducted to ensure that any development would not impact on the integrity of the trees’ extensive root system. Essentially, the study was part of a determining factor in location of the infrastructure for the barbecue area.

“The project was a collaborative effort between MMPAD and the RRC for the project management and installation of barbecue and materials and MMPAD and Men’s Shed with refurbishment of existing seating and construction and tables and seating.

“We were also fortunate that Australian Heritage Specialists were able to assist by providing a free Heritage Impact Study,” Mr Steinberger said.

“These collaborations are also another positive outcome for the project. RRC will also provide disability access to the barbecue area later.

“It was also good to be able to refurbish some of the older railway specific furniture,” he said.

“While the increased infrastructure will be used for the Driver Reviver travellers, locals are welcome to come down and use the site.

Mount Morgan’s Driver Reviver stop is open seven days a week between 9 am and 4 pm.

DEE RIVER OLDIES

What a day we had. Our Christmas Lunch at the Grand Hotel, Mount Morgan was enjoyed by our members. No one went home hungry after such a delicious lunch.

With a lot of raffle and lucky door prizes there were lots of winners. Carolyn Read won the first prize which was a $50 hamper and a half leg ham. Margaret Hoehne won the second prize hamper and Tony Davis won the third prize hamper.

Our December Meeting is on a week earlier on Tuesday, 13 December 2022 starting at 2 p.m.

In January 2023, there is no meeting planned. There will be a Morning Tea on Wednesday, 18 January 2023. The cost is $5 and starts at 10 a.m. Come along and see what our group has planned for 2023.

New members aged over 50 years old are welcome to join. There is no cost for membership. Enjoy the festive activities leading up to Christmas. Stay happy and healthy. Submitted by the Steering Committee - Carol Glover 4938 1995 or Colleen Constable 0427 161 131

MOUNT MORGAN BUSINESS AND SERVICES DIRECTORY

Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc is continually updating its Business and Services Directory used at the Mount Morgan Visitior Information (Explore) Centre and Railway Museum. If you have any new contact details that you would like to include or if you are unsure if you are listed, please contact MMPAD on 4938 2312, 0492 885 350 or email: mmpad@ mountmorgan.org.au This information is provided to local residents and visitors.

Have something you need printed? or laminated?

Come down and see the friendly people at MMPAD. Contact us on 4938 2312 for prices or for further information visit us at the Railway Museum.

GOLF CLUB TO HOST STATE WOMEN’S SAND GREEN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Golf Australia has just announced that the Mount Morgan Golf Club has won the right to host the 2025 Queensland Women’s Sand Greens championships on Saturday and Sunday, 8-9 June 2025

This will attract women golfers from around the state and will give them the opportunity to win a Queensland State Title. The local lady golfers will have the home course advantage and a real chance of taking home one of the titles. This will also provide an opportunity for the visiting players to tour around Central Queensland during their stay.

Golf Central Queensland will be supporting the Mount. Morgan Golf Club in managing this prestigious event in 2025, as the number of players will be second only to the Central Queensland Robinson Cup which the Mount Morgan Golf Club successfully held in 2020 with 176 players take to the course.

Mount Morgan Golf Club Secretary, Roger Brewster said this event would be big for the club.

“It’s normally held in the Central West in Barcaldine or Longreach or in the South West at Mitchell,” he said.

This would be the first time that this event will be held in Central Queensland.

The last time a State Sand Green championship was held in Central Queensland was the men’s in 1991.

Players would limited to 90 players for each day.

Roger submitted the Expression of Interest to host the championships, outlining why Mount Morgan was capable to hold the tournament.

While most of the major prizes are being supplied by Golfing Australia, there will some that the Mount Morgan club will be sponsoring.

Roger is now hoping for more rain to help with maintaining the green.

“If the event is successful, it may mean that hosting these championships will be in a roster, meaning we will host them every so many years, like the Robinson’s Cup,” Roger said.

The club members have two years to prepare for the event!

The 45-hole nett prizes went to Lance Antcliff and Vicky Lacey.

Congratulations to all prize winners over the two days. There are too many people to thank individually but special mention must go to our sponsors, Patcol Group, LG Building Products, Newsome’s Tyres, Thomo's Betta Home Living, Jeff Hoy from All About Golf Performance Centre and Lance Antcliff. Looking forward to next year’s event which hopefully will be bigger and better.

Although numbers were low, the inaugural "Conquer the Mountain" golf weekend at the Mount Morgan Golf Club on 19-20 November was a massive hit with all involved.

Players competed for a a portion of the $5000 in prizes. Some camped at the club and others booked into motels in town.

Major winners included Men's “Conquer the Mountain Champion”, Shaun Antcliff with an 18 under score of 157 for 45 holes. Shaun broke his own 18-hole Course Record with 58 on Saturday.

Ladies Conquer the Mountain Champion is Bernie Antcliff from Yeppoon GC with a 6-over score of 181. Champions are pictured on left.

MORGAN

Mount

used at the Mount Morgan Visitior Information (Explore) Centre and Railway Museum. If

have any new contact details that you would like to include or if you are unsure if you are listed, please contact MMPAD on 4938 2312, 0492 885 350 or email: mmpad@bigpond.com. This information is provided to local residents and visitors.

Special visitor at the Mount Morgan Library

Santa has asked his good friend and local identity Dave Lodewikus to represent him on a special visit to the Mount Morgan Read’n’Rhyme on Monday, 19 December, to share a few Christmas stories and songs with young families.

The session runs from 9:30am - 10:00am, with lots of fun and games, and all children will receive a free picture book. Please give our Library Administration office a call on phone 4936 8043 if you would like to join the fun (bookings appreciated to ensure we have enough books for everyone).

Holiday programs

There are many exciting programs happening at Rockhampton Regional Libraries these school holidays.

A special Christmas craft activity will be taking place at the Mount Morgan library on Monday 12 December (with sessions at 10.00-11.00am and 3.30-4.30pm) and Gracemere Library is having a Christmas Craft Bonanza on Wednesday 14 December at 10.00am.

There’s also a DIY craft pack available at Mount Morgan, to either do in the library or take home, and the colouring competition to win a Lyle, Lyle Crocodile prize pack is currently underway.

And make sure you grab our two December activity

LIBRARY NEWS

booklets packed with loads of Christmas trivia, puzzles, colouring and craft to keep you busy over the holidays.

Saturday Opening Hours and Christmas closure

Until the end of the year, the Mount Morgan and Gracemere libraries will be open alternate Saturdays, with the Mount Morgan Library open on 10 December from 9.00am-12.00 noon. All Rockhampton Regional Libraries will be closed over the Christmas period. Mount Morgan closes at 3:00pm on Friday, 23 December 2022 and reopens on Wednesday 04 January 2023 at 9.00am.

Make sure you drop in to stock up on reading material, CDs, DVDs and puzzles before the Christmas closure! And remember, we also have a great range of digital resources - including eBooks, eMagazines, eAudio, movie streaming and online learning courses – available 24/7 from your own device, so your library is still only a click away!

Summer Reading Club

Summer is here, and that means it’s time for the Summer Reading Club! This online club, sponsored by the State Library of Queensland, is a great way for young people to share their love of books with others and build their literacy skills. Participants can register at https://summerreadingclub.slq.qld.gov.au/ for fun challenges and reading prompts.

Hop online, pick one of the 20 challenges and get reading! Summer Reading Club runs throughout December 2022 and January 2023, so pop into your local library for free access to thousands of books during the school holidays. Our library staff would love to hear what you’re reading this summer!

DVDs have moved!

If you have been to the Mount Morgan Library recently you will have seen that some of our collection has moved. DVDs are now housed on spinners at the end of our shelves. Please ask staff if you need help finding anything.

Regular Programs

Read’n’Rhyme is held at the Mount Morgan Library every second Monday at 9:30am, with the next session on 19 December.

This interactive program is for parents and carers with babies and children up to 5 years of age and is a fun way to develop early literacy skills through stories, songs, rhymes and play. On Wednesday, it’s all about the blocks … LEGO® blocks that is! Put your engineering skills to the test and see what amazing things you can construct.

Riley Lewis commenced his Emergency Services career in 2009 when he signed up as an Emergency Services Cadet. He completed his basic training and showing that he had leadership qualities was made a Cadet Leader. Riley remained with the Mount Morgan Cadet Group for the duration of its existence, that was until Cadets were taken over by the PCYC and the Mount Morgan Group closed.

In the years he spent away from the services, Riley focused on his career and family life with his partner and three children, but the need to assist the community was strong, so in 2020 he applied and joined the SES Group here in Mount Morgan.

Completing his low-risk basic training which earned him the rank of Field Officer. He is looking forward to the more challenging high-risk courses like Working Safely at Heights and Chainsaw Operations to add to the Traffic Control qualification he already holds. He has come up with some excellent scenarios for training which allow members to hone their skills. Riley is an attendee at community engagements and fundraising events.

When the call goes out for assistance at an activation, Riley will be there. He is pedantic when it comes to safety and often suggests safer alternatives to carry out tasks.

“It is important to keep a clear and open mind set and assess the task at hand for dangers before completing it and working as a team is essential,” Riley says about attending activations.

Riley stays with SES because it’s his second family.

“I feel that by being here I am making a difference in the community,” he said

In his spare time Riley enjoys spending time with his family and gardening.

He encourages anyone who has some time on their hands, is physically fit and is interested in assisting the community, to join SES.

“It is a very worthwhile organisation where apart from providing assistance in times of need, you make great friends and learn new skills,” Riley said.

MOUNT MORGAN OUTDOORS

Firearm Accessories – Militaria- Fishing – Bait - Archery – Ammo – Gifts – Television Antenna Sales & Installation - Metal Detectors and Prospecting Gear - Camping Gear!

ABN 86 894 469 085

Eric J Stevenson. DNRME License to Sell Explosives 1300622

69 Morgan Street, Mount Morgan Firearm Sales / PTA’s still from 11 Glen Gordon Street by appointment

Firearm Dealer License No. 50001499 Mount Morgan Guns

THE ORANGE DOT

By Larry at Fox Video

Movie Review

TOP GUN - MAVERICK

Okay, so Tom Cruise had a silly season, bouncing up and down on Oprah’s couch and whooping like an excited little child on international television, publicly wagging the finger at Brooke Shields and admonishing her for her use of prescribed antidepressants, his association with and vocal promotion of Scientology after his wife Mimi Rogers introduced him into it (and he credits it with helping him to overcome his Dyslexia) ... During this period, he lost a lot of fans and put many (especially women) around the world, including in Australia, offside. But come on folks, that was nearly twenty years ago. Haven’t we all had our own “silly seasons” that we regret and cringe at the memory of? And most of us did not have cameras all over us at the time. Time to cut the guy a break.

Tom has toned it down enormously and been a model citizen for many years now. He still does his own truly hair-raising stunts despite the fact that he is now sixty (doesn’t look a day over forty), and even the most vehement haters have to admit that he makes truly great movies. Add to all of that, Tom is almost single-handedly fighting a crusade to save The Cinema and the hundreds and thousands of jobs that go with it. Even during the

pandemic with MAVERICK in the can long ago he refused to give in to all the pressure to release the film via streaming services. Every day he was personally calling cinema owners who had been locked down and shut down“Please, I know what you’re going through but hang in there, I’m saving MAVERICK and MISSION IMPOSSIBLE for you; as soon as you’re allowed to reopen.”

Tom also gets credit for taking care of his friends. He made certain that TOP GUN: MAVERICK would include his old friend Val Kilmer, who has truly been going through his own personal hell for the last seven years. Since being diagnosed with throat cancer in 2015, Val has endured surgery to remove the tumour which destroyed his voice box, chemotherapy and at least two tracheotomies which have left him short of breath, having to breathe and eat through tubes and speak in a gasping rasp. He now plugs in a voice box to communicate, although a UK A.I firm is working to recreate his own voice for the electronic box. Despite all of this he is back in TOPGUN, and Tom wanted him there.

Feel the need - the need for speed!

After more than thirty years of service as one of the Navy’s top

aviators, Pete ‘Maverick’ Mitchell (Tom Cruise) is where he belongs; pushing the envelope as a courageous test pilot and artfully dodging the advancement in rank that would see him grounded. When he finds himself training a detachment of Top Gun graduates for a special mission the likes of which no living pilot has ever seen, Maverick encounters Lt. Brad Bradshaw (Miles Teller), call sign “Rooster” and son of Maverick’s late friend and Radar Intercept Officer, Lt Nick Bradshaw, a.k.a. ‘Goose’. Facing an uncertain future and dealing with the ghosts of this past, Maverick is forced to confront his own deepest fears, culminating in a daring mission that may demand the ultimate sacrifice from any or all those chosen to fly it.

Also featuring the ever excellent Jennifer Connelly and John Hamm, TOP GUN: MAVERICK runs for 125 supercharged, highvoltage minutes, and is rated M for ‘violence and coarse language’.

Superb on all levels...TOP GUN: MAVERICK - Loved it!

ACT OF KINDNESS REAFFIRMS FAITH

A random act of kindness has reaffirmed Rozalia Bagyi’s faith in people.

In November, Rozalia stopped for fuel, and when she was about to pay for it, a young person (whose name she didn’t get) stepped up and paid for her.

“It was a really kind act and reaffirmed that there is kindness in the world,” Rozalia said.

This act of kindness was even more special because it happened on her birthday.

“It was a happy birthday for me,” she said.

Mount Morgan in Pictures

By Catherine McIntosh, descendant of the colonial Stubbs family of Mount Morgan

This year’s favourite portraits

Dozens of historical Mount Morgan images have been published in ‘Mount Morgan in Pictures’ this year, many of which were portraits. While they are all special to me, here are my top three male portraits.

Wesley Hall

This image of English-born James Wesley (‘Wesley’) Hall (1839-1901) (left) is the only-known close-up of him from the 1880s when he worked at the Mount Morgan mine. He’s looking directly at the camera –which was unusual in those days (subjects generally looked away from the camera). His ‘bushranger’ beard and slicked-back hairstyle were typical of colonial Mount Morgan.

Historical newspapers describe Wesley as modest and humble. Less flamboyant than his elder brother and founder of the Mount Morgan mine, Walter Hall, he’s wearing a simple buttoned jacket over a white singlet, reflecting his down to earth character. One newspaper commented:

‘… Mr. Hall was the manager of the [Mount Morgan] mine in the historic year [1889] when £1,100,000 was paid in dividends … In private life Mr. Hall was very quiet and unostentatious. No stranger would have suspected the existence of his wealth from a casual meeting with him …’ (‘Funeral of Mr. Wesley Hall’, Morning Bulletin (Rockhampton, Qld: 1878-1954), 17 January 1901).

From the State Library of Queensland.

James Stewart

This is the only image I have ever found of Scottishborn entrepreneur and businessman, James Stewart (1837-1923) (centre). He’s dressed formally compared to Wesley, with a tailored jacket, cravat

and top hat. Sporting a hint of a moustache, his gloved hands are resting on his stylish cane. He exudes sophistication and elegance – in line with his marketing slogan: ‘Always buy the best and you will always buy from us’.

Mr Stewart’s contribution to early Mount Morgan was significant. He was chairman of the Mount Morgan Gold Mining Company Limited from 1889 to 1894, with the Hall brothers amongst his fellow directors. He was also founder of the well-known department store, Stewarts. One of his branches operated in Mount Morgan for over thirty years from 1895. (My great-Auntie Glad Stubbs (1906-1997) would buy my sister and I a ‘summer frock’ from Stewarts in Rockhampton whenever we visited from Sydney).

Knox D’Arcy

Mount Morgan gold magnate from England, William Knox (‘Knox’) D’Arcy (1849-1917) (right), looks confident (almost cocky) in this 1899 image at Marienbad, a spa town in the Kingdom of Bohemia (modern-day Czech Republic). He’s dapper in his smart jacket, crisp white shirt, tie and top hat.

Shortly after this photograph, he would almost wipe out his Mount Morgan fortune looking for Middle Eastern oil. However, he had success at the eleventh hour and would go on to form the company that became British Petroleum (BP). He was the ultimate risk-taker.

James Stewart and Knox D’Arcy images from the National Library of Australia.

Next Issue: Top three female portraits of the year.

This author has made best efforts to provide accurate information for this publication of ‘Mount Morgan in Pictures’.

Funding for arts projects now open

If you’re working on an idea for a new arts project and need funding to help make it happen then the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) may be able to help.

The next round of the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is now open and applications are being sought for projects that will start after 1 February 2023.

RADF is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Rockhampton Regional Council, supporting professional artists and arts practice in regional areas.

It distributes approximately $60,000 of funding in Rockhampton Region each year.

Rockhampton Regional Council Arts and Heritage spokesperson Cr Drew Wickerson said that local established and emerging artists can apply to receive financial assistance for their professional development, and local groups can receive assistance to employ professional artists for a specific project.

“I encourage any local individuals and groups to see if RADF can help them,” Cr Wickerson said.

RADF is a grass roots funding program where grants are decided by a local committee who are familiar with local priorities. Funding is available for a range of projects within the artistic and cultural sphere.

DEC 10: Baree Markets will be held at the Baree Hall, Creek Street Baree 8 am - 12 noon. Contact Pam on 0438 584 377. Sites available.

DEC 10: Mount Morgan Rodeo Association Christmas Cent Sale. Soldiers’ Rooms, 18 Morgan St. Doors open 12 noon, 1 pm start. Light refreshments for purchase.

DEC 13: Dee River Oldies Group - Monthly Meeting starting at 2.00 pm to be held in St Mary’s Hall, Gordon Street, Mount Morgan. (Behind the Anglican Church). This meeting is being held a week earlier than usual.

DEC 14: AA meeting Mount Morgan, every Wednesday at 10am, Soldiers’ Rooms 18 Morgan St, rear entrance and parking, beginning. Extra meeting 10am on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day - 25th December and 1st January 2023.

DEC 16: Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc Twilight Christmas Concert and Buy Local Draw. 6.00 - 8 pm. Mount Morgan Railway Station.

DEC 16: Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc Christmas Lights Winners announced. Mount Morgan Railway Station in conjunction with Mount Morgan Twilight Christmas Concert.

JAN 8: Country Music Afternoon. Soldiers’ Rooms 18 Morgan Street. 12 noon to 4pm $8 adults $2 children. Refreshments supplied. Bar Operating.

JAN 18: Dee River Oldies Group - Morning Tea starting at 10 am. Cost is $5. Come along and put your ideas forward for discussion for what is planned for 2023. Raffle and lucky door prizes on the day. New and existing members welcome.

FEB 5: Country Music Afternoon. Soldiers’ Rooms 18 Morgan Street. 12 noon to 4pm. $8 adults $2 children. Refreshments supplied. Bar Operating.

MOUNT MORGAN MEN’S SHED INC.

Meet 9 am - 12 noon Wednesdays Phone John on 0429 055 165

PAINTER: Semi retired. W. Cruickshank

Phone 0488 104 774 or 0488 105 257.

LIGHT ON THE HILL CHURCH

EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT

Green Shed from 7 pm. Phone 0412 502 937

ROTARY CLUB OF MOUNT MORGAN

DINNER MEETING - THURSDAY - GRAND HOTEL 6.00 for 6.30. Interested people are encouraged to attend or send an Expression of Interest to PO Box 2, Mount Morgan

Blue Care Trash & Treasure, 21 Gordon Street. Every Friday from 8.30 am to 12 noon. Every first Saturday of the month from 8 am to 12 noon Bags of clothing $5. Marion’s plants for sale.

AA meeting

Mount Morgan Soldiers’ Rooms 18 Morgan St 10am - 11am every Wednesday

“The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking”

MOUNT MORGAN QCWA BRANCH Meets every third Monday at the Green Shed - Thompson Ave 9.30 am meet for 10 am start. MOUNT MORGAN

MOUNT MORGAN SHOWGROUNDS EVERYONE WELCOME. For further information contact Heather on 4934 0023

NEXT EDITION

WEDNESDAY,

21 DECEMBER 2022

All inclusions required by: Tuesday, 13 December by 4 p.m. Ph: 4938 2312

Email: mmpad@mountmorgan.org.au

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